Silver tea service

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A silver tea service is an expensive tea set. It is usually the household's best and is used following formal dinners, or at a tea party.

A silver tea service generally comprises:

• teapot
• sugar bowl
• milk pitcher also known as a creamer or jug
• slop bowl
• tea strainer
• serving tray

A silver tea service is always presented on a tray. While a set of teaspoons is a necessity, as is a sugar spoon or sugar tongs, cutlery is not included as part of the tea service. In larger silver services, a silver coffeepot is sometimes included to form what is termed a tea and coffee service.

In a very formal household, the tea service is cared for by the footman, under the supervision of the butler, who is responsible for the household silver.